But he always saw himself in a Boilermaker jersey, so he held out as long as he could.

When a Purdue preferred walk-on opportunity came, he gambled on his talents, believing once he grows into his 6-foot-3 frame, he can find his way onto the field. Once the Boilermakers made their pitch in early May, it was essentially a done deal.

Excited to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at Purdue Universty. Thanks to everyone who helped make this happen. Go boilers!! pic.twitter.com/4LHdyFc4cQ

"I trust my ability to go out there and make a difference in two or three years," Staton said. "I think that as long as I work hard, I have a chance to be out there."

Fry believes that, too, though perhaps not as a linebacker. West Lafayette, which rarely uses players on both sides of the ball, at times lined Staton at receiver. He had 23 career receptions and seven were touchdowns.

"I wouldn't be shocked if in a couple years, Purdue says, 'Why don't you play tight end?' and he's 240 pounds," Fry said "He has the frame to wear that kind of weight."

Before making the decision, though, he reached out to a former teammate who took a similar chance.

Jonah Williams, a former West Lafayette linebacker and tight end and now Purdue walk-on, told Staton to be prepared to work his butt off.

That's never been an issue.

Neither has his ability to learn and adapt, which helped him earn a roster spot for the North All-Star team this week.

"Luke is a great player on the field, but it goes way beyond that," said Fry, who was the head coach for the North All-Stars in the 2016 game. "They (all-star coaches) want guys down there that are captain-like guys. You want leaders and great teammates. You can pass on a little talent here and there. Luke is so coachable and I know the coaches will love him and he will fit in real well."